Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
Plan your project with real construction cost data
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THE NALThe 10-Day "Deemed Approval": How to Skip the Bayside Queue in 2026
Regulations

The 10-Day "Deemed Approval": How to Skip the Bayside Queue in 2026

Feb 26, 2026 By Compliance Team
The 10-Day "Deemed Approval": How to Skip the Bayside Queue in 2026

For decades, the "Bayside Wait" was a rite of passage for Melbourne renovators—often stretching six months for a simple extension. But as of February 17, 2026, the game has changed. The Planning Amendment (Better Decisions Made Faster) Act 2026 has officially received Royal Assent, introducing a "Type 1" application stream that every homeowner needs to know.

What is a "Type 1" Application?

Replacing the old VicSmart system, the new "Type 1" stream is designed for low-impact residential projects (like single-storey rear extensions or sheds). The kicker? It carries a 10-business-day "deemed approval" clause. If your council doesn't provide a decision within 10 days, the permit is effectively granted.

Why this matters for your 2026 Budget:

  • 01.

    Holding Costs: Every month you wait for council is another month of rent or mortgage interest. Fast-tracking can save a Brighton family upwards of $8,000 in holding costs alone.

  • 02.

    No Third-Party Appeals: Type 1 applications are exempt from the standard neighbor notification and VCAT review process.

Is your project eligible?

To qualify, your build must adhere strictly to the "low-impact" code. At buildALLY, our estimator automatically flags if your project dimensions fall within the Type 1 fast-track zone, potentially shaving 20 weeks off your timeline.

Postcode Profit Check

Is your suburb in the 2026 Growth Zone? Run our free Postcode Analysis to see current labor rates and permit lead times for your specific street.

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